Water Feature and Garden Pond Liner

Pond liner makes even the most difficult pond construction scenarios possible. We recommend using a pond liner for any pond with less than 5,000 square feet of surface area.

There are many different types of pond liners. Selecting the correct liner to hold water is the single, most important decision when building a small fish pond.

Types of Pond Liner - Water Feature Liners

Preformed plastic liners

These rigid plastic bowls are often used for very small water garden ponds - less than 250 gallons. Installation can be challenging because the water feature hole must be exactly matched to the plastic liner. This can be a reasonable short-term solution to hold water for a small fish pond, but shouldn't be considered for a long-term pond. There is a tendency for a preformed pond liner to crack over time especially in climates where winter temperatures drop below freezing.

Flexible PVC plastic liners

While flexible PVC plastic pond liners can be an economical solution for a small pond liner, they also have a limited lifespan because PVC breaks down when exposed to UV light from the sun. Manufacturers have extended the lifespan of the PVC liners by adding UV protection, but unless the liner will be completely covered by soil and/or rock the PVC option should not be selected.

Flexible LDPE - HDPE plastic liners

Flexible Polyethylene is a viable option for larger fish ponds. This unique liner material can be custom fabricated into liners up to 25,000 square feet. There are many thicknesses and reinforcement options for the LDPE - HDPE geomembranes. Polyethylene liners are lighter than most other lining materials which allows the larger sizes to be moved in a single panel.

UV light can damage the liner, but most include a 20-year protective coating to reduce risk. Covering the material with sand, soil, or stone is highly recommended to extend the life. Contact us for custom liner fabrication information. LDPE - HDPE liners are very strong with high resistance to punctures and tears.

EPDM Rubber Pond Liner

This type of rubber pond liner is our top choice for nearly any size water feature. We've used EPDM rubber on projects from 200 gallons to over 3 acres. The flexibility of this membrane makes it an excellent choice to fit the curves and irregular surfaces that are often found in a smaller water garden. It conforms well to the pond bottom, works with steep sides, does not break down when exposed to UV light, and can stretch without rupturing.

Although the 2 materials are similar, rubber roofing should not be used for pond lining because of additional chemical treatments including algaecides and fungicides that are added to roofing. Rubber liner that is specifically designed for ponds is the only fish-safe option.

For larger projects, liner panels up to 200 feet by 50 feet can be field seamed to create an impervious water barrier of any size or shape.

Clay Pond Liner

Natural bentonite clay can also be used to line ponds of any size. Bentonite is not a good choice for ponds with steep sides because the material needs to be mixed with local soil and compacted using a vibratory roller for maximum effectiveness.

How long will a pond liner last?

A properly designed and installed pond liner system will last decades. Using Firestone EPDM pond liner we have constructed water features that are holding water flawlessly for over 30 years.

Do I need underlayment for pond liner?

Underlayment is highly recommended for PVC, LDPE, HDPE, and Rubber pond liners. Even if the pond bottom is cleared of all sharp objects before the liner is placed, the weight of the water over time can cause the liner to press against sharp rocks, roots, etc to create a puncture.

When unscreened soil, stone, or larger landscape rock is placed over the liner we also place a protective layer of geotextile on top of the liner. This ensures that the water feature liner will be protected for a long life of enjoyment.

Determining the type of liner to use and how to properly install the liner can be confusing. Rely on our experience! For more information about liner systems including liner system design, materials, and installation please contact us directly.

Be sure to ask for our FREE comparison of pond liner systems and be sure you're making the best decision!